The Nap I Didn’t Take: A Lesson in Rest and Self-Care

“Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, Jesus said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’” — Mark 6:31

When the Hygienist Dropped a Truth Bomb

Today I went to my dental appointment. My hygienist was friendly, professional, and only slightly offensive — she called me “Ma’am.” 

She smiled and asked, “Ma’am, how has your day been so far?” I told her my day was going well and politely asked about hers.

She replied, “Oh, it’s been great! I just woke up from a nap on my break!”

Hold up! A nap... At one o’clock in the afternoon.

I instantly started laughing — like the full “are you serious?” kind of laugh that’s half amusement, half envy.

A Nap?! Teach Me Your Ways

I told her, “I work from home, my bed is literally ten steps away from my office, and I have never taken a nap during the day. Clearly, I’m doing something wrong!”

We both laughed, but after the appointment, that moment stuck with me.

Why don’t I take a break? Why is rest something I treat like a luxury instead of a necessity?

I realized it’s not just about naps. It’s about permission — giving ourselves the grace to pause.

When You Live in “Go Mode”

I’m great at productivity. I’m fluent in multitasking. But resting? That’s where I struggle. I convince myself I’ll rest later — after the emails, the laundry, the errands, the everything.

And yet, Jesus — who literally had the world to save — took time to rest. He told His disciples, “Come with me to a quiet place and get some rest.” (Mark 6:31)

If Jesus modeled rest, what makes me think I’m above it?

The Hygienist Was Right (and I Don’t Even Think She Knew It)

That simple conversation reminded me that sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is close your laptop, silence your phone, and take a nap. Rest isn’t laziness — it’s stewardship. It’s caring for the body and mind God gave you so you can keep showing up for others with joy and energy.

And if you can’t remember the last time you rested, maybe it’s time to schedule one — yes, even if it’s just a twenty-minute nap or a peaceful cup of tea on the porch.

A Word of Encouragement

Friend, you don’t need permission to pause. God built rest into the rhythm of creation. (Even He took the seventh day off!) So take a breath. Take a break. Take a nap if you can. The world will keep spinning, and you’ll wake up better for it.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, thank You for reminding me that rest is not weakness but wisdom. Help me to slow down, breathe, and find peace in Your presence today. Amen.

💬 So tell me — when was the last time you took a nap (and didn’t feel guilty about it)? Share your rest ideas in the comments below!